British music festivals are bracing for a potential talent drain as post-Brexit visa rules threaten to make it harder—and more expensive—for European Union artists to perform in the UK. Festival organisers warn that new immigration requirements could lead to fewer international acts and higher costs for events already struggling with inflation.
The Visa Hurdle
Under the new system, EU musicians and crew members now need visas or work permits to perform in Britain—a significant change from pre-Brexit freedom of movement. Industry experts say the additional paperwork and costs (often running into hundreds of pounds per artist) may discourage smaller acts from crossing the Channel.
Festival Organisers Sound the Alarm
"We're already seeing some EU-based artists decline invitations because the process is too complicated," revealed one major festival director who asked to remain anonymous. "For emerging artists, the costs can outweigh potential earnings from a UK show."
The Association of Independent Festivals estimates the new rules could add 10-20% to production budgets, potentially forcing some events to:
- Reduce international programming
- Increase ticket prices
- Cancel altogether
A Cultural Backstep?
Music industry leaders argue this contradicts the government's promise that Brexit would make Britain more globally connected. "Cultural exchange should be frictionless," argued Music Managers Forum CEO Annabella Coldrick. "We risk becoming culturally isolated at exactly the moment we should be building new international relationships."
The Home Office maintains the rules strike "the right balance", but with festival season approaching, many in the arts worry the true cost of Brexit is only now becoming clear.
